BVZ pensioners get glasses and dental care allowance

WILLEMSTAD – Those with limited means and also pensioners, who are covered by the Basic Medical Insurance (BVZ), are now entitled to compensation for eyeglasses and dental care. This is what Minister Ben Whiteman of Public Health announced yesterday during the press conference in Fort Amsterdam. This is the third change in the law.

In total there are 34,000 pensioners on the island. 30,000 pensioners have an income of 3,500 guilders (2000 dollars) or less. The remaining pensioners have an income of over 3500 guilders. Whiteman has indicated that it is now also possible to accommodate that group. "Two weeks ago we made ​​this decision. For financial evaluation, the proposal was sent to the Ministry of Finance. Wednesday, the proposal was sent back with a positive opinion. We then made the proposal official and put it into effect immediately."

The compensation for baby food and transportation for cancer and dialysis patients were previously changed within the BVZ. This gives a group of mothers free baby food and patients can also get transportation for other treatments. The BVZ was introduced in February of this year.